• Mini motorcycles are illegal on the roadways in Texas.mini moto image by jerome scalvini from Fotolia.com
  
  Mini motorcycles are smaller, lighter versions of their full-sized counterparts. However, they are not toys and can reach speeds of more than 45 miles per hour, according to MiniPocketRockets.com. Mini motorcycles operate with a gasoline engine and Texas law does not consider them scooters, mopeds, or motor-assisted bicycles.
  
  

Definition of Mini Motorcycle

• A mini motorcycle is defined by the Texas Transportation Code as a self-propelled vehicle that has an electric or gas engine that is 50 cubic centimeters or less in size. It is not considered a scooter because it does not have a platform on which the rider can stand. A motor-assisted bicycle in Texas must have an engine that is a maximum of 40 cubic centimeters in size, 10 cubic centimeters smaller than engines that are available on a mini-motorcycle.
  
  

Public Roads

• Mini motorcycles are illegal on public roads in Texas. Moreover, owners of mini motorcycles can neither title nor register them in the state, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The only place they can be operated legally is on private property.
  
  

Side Walks

• The mini motorcycle or pocket bike is also illegal to drive on the sidewalk. In Texas, no motor vehicle can be ridden on sidewalks and the mini motorcycle is deemed a motor vehicle.
  
  

Violations

• Riders face fines and penalties for riding a mini motorcycle on the roadways in Texas. Law enforcement can charge riders with driving an unregistered vehicle, equipment violations and driving without insurance. Drivers also face a violation of the helmet law in the state if the rider is under 21 years old and not wearing a helmet. Parents of children under 15 caught riding on a mini motorcycle are responsible for the violations and face an additional charge of failing to supervise the operation of the mini motorcycle by their child.